IF you love surfing but can’t quite make it as far as Hawaii, there is a place in Europe that might be just as good.
Denmark’s fishing village of Klitmøller has been transformed into a prime surf location in the last few years, leading to its nickname “Cold Hawaii”.
The stretch of coast in North Jutland in Denmark gained the moniker thanks to its wind conditions making it a prime surfing location.
There are 31 other surf spots in this part of Denmark, including places like Agger and Hanstholm.
The nickname of Cold Hawaii came from a 1994 windsurfing documentary, the BBC reports.
Located in rural Jutland, Klitmøller hosts several surf competitions throughout the year like the Cold Hawaii PWA World Cup where 32 surfers compete for the cup.
Its most famous spot is known as the Reef where surfers can test out their skills on more challenging waves.
Beginners can stick to the more sheltered bays that provide more manageable conditions.
And lining the beachfront are surf shops, co-working sites and cafes, and even some saunas to warm up in.
Local Casper Steinfath said that while surfing is a huge part of the area, it still remains relatively quiet.
He told GQ: “My dad says it reminds him of what California was like back in the 60s and 70s. It still feels untamed.”
Just don’t expect the warmer weather of Hawaii – Denmark reaches around 2-3C in winter, while Hawaii is closer to 24C.
If you’re a surfer, the best time to visit Cold Hawaii is between September and November, as this is when the best waves are.
Even though surfing is the area’s main draw, there are plenty of other outdoor activities for holidaymakers to try, including kite surfing, windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding.
Fishing is another popular activity in the area.
For holidaymakers who prefer to stay on land, there’s also the nearby Thy National Park that’s home to hiking and cycling trails.
The Sun’s Jacob Lewis previously visited – here’s what it was like.
My home for the weekend is Niels Juel, a thatched-roofed fish restaurant and B&B with panoramic sea views and a wood-burning hot tub, run by Jesper and Helle Birch.
Taking full advantage of the waves is Westwind, a surf school and shop staffed by absurdly chiselled, sun-tanned, blonde instructors.
I’m paired up with Kristine. A confident teacher who speaks perfect English, she helps me catch a few waves, while I whine about feeling seasick in the choppy conditions.
After a mouthwatering seafood platter, Jesper, a friendly face with an easy laugh, cracks open the homemade herbal akvavit.
Birch For Homesickness or Hawthorn For Seasickness — I go for an extra measure of the latter.
The locals were so warm I felt I’d made friends with the entire town.
B&Bs are the most popular form of overnight accommodation in the area, with stays starting from £62 per night, based on two people sharing a room.
Brits can fly to Copenhagen from a number of UK cities such as Bristol, Manchester, Edinburgh, Birmingham and London.
Klitmøller located is then a four-hour drive from Copenhagen.
Denmark is home to plenty of other lesser-known stretches of sand, including Hornbæk, which is located within the Danish Riviera in North Sealand.
The seaside town of Hornbæk is just under an hour away from Copenhagen (Denmark’s capital city), and it is also home to the largest beach on the Danish Riviera.
Hornbæk Beach is a Blue Flag beach with stretches of soft sand.
Last September, travel reporter Hope Brotherton visited Aarhus, Denmark’s happiest city.
She wrote: “It’s easy to see why it’s the world’s happiest. The city is home to quaint cobbled streets, winding waterways and cosy independent shops, which make it both easy-going and vibrant.
And it’s the city’s vibrant atmosphere, one where you can’t help but smile, that has earned it the moniker of the “city of smiles”.
During my trip, I challenged myself to enjoy a two-night break in Aarhus for just £250, so I know how to explore the city on a budget.
Unfortunately, there are some things that just can’t be done on the cheap, like visiting the city’s top attractions.
Den Gamle By is the world’s oldest living museum, making it one of most unique attractions in the Danish city.
I spent around two hours exploring every nook and cranny of the re-constructed buildings, some of which date back to the 1800s.
There’s also ARoS Art Museum, which dominates the Aarhus Skyline thanks to its rainbow walkway that sits on top of the gallery.
There are plenty of free attractions in the city too, including a stroll along the Salling Rooftop — a network of wooden walkways and green spaces built on top of a department store.
The Cultural Production Center Godsbanen, Aarhus Cathedral and Aarhus Concert Hall are also all free to enter.
Meanwhile, this affordable city break destination has been tipped to be big this year.
And these cheap city break deals are on offer this year.
A TAX expert has shared that boosting your 401k contribution is among the best ways to reduce the tax you pay, ahead of the upcoming filing deadline.
With the late tax filing cut off day fast approaching, registered accountants have shared their do’s and don’ts to make the filing process easier.
Tax season can be a difficult time, but being properly informed can make it smoother.
While the Internal Revenue Service’s April 15 cut-off date for tax returns has passed, some taxpayers may have filed an extension to have more time to compile their claim.
The final cut off date for the extended deadline is October 15.
Business owners and workers must ensure all their documents are up to date, according to licensed tax professionals.
Sheri Fiske Schultz, a certified public accountant and managing partner of Fiske & Company, said taxpayers should keep their records straight throughout the year to avoid any trouble.
They should also be aware of their deductions, especially business owners to ensure they claim for things like office supplies and travel
Consumers should keep all records for medical expenses and mortgage interest to ensure they are not double taxed.
Schultz also urged people to get professional help when needed, and try not to ignore taxes.
She also said people should be honest about their income, because underreporting can lead to audits and hefty fines.
Chris Rivera, founder of Ecommerce Accountants and licensed CPA, said taxpayers should double check their tax return for accuracy, which is especially critical for people filing last minute.
“Double check personal details, Social Security numbers and account numbers as mistakes can lead to processing delays,” Rivera said.
“Rushing through your return increases the likelihood of mistakes, which can lead to rejected returns or an IRS audit.
“Take the time to review before hitting submit.”
Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting principal federal tax analyst Mark Luscombe said anyone who is unable to pay by the October 15 deadline must contact the IRS to try to work out a compromised arrangement otherwise interest and penalties will be incurred.
However, taxpayers impacted by recent hurricane events including Helene and Milton may be able to get a further filing extension.
“Filing by October 15 with an extension on file will avoid a failure to file penalty,” Luscombe said.
“If taxes were not paid by April 15 and throughout the prior year through withholding or estimated tax payments, a failure to pay penalty may be imposed by the IRS.”
Experts also suggested increasing the amount of money you contribute to your 401k through your job.
By putting more money away in your 401k, taxpayers can decrease their taxable income resulting in an lower tax liability overall.
Taxpayers should also get familiar with IRS.GOV which has a wealth of information as well as up to date press releases.
The IRS also has an interactive tax assistant to help navigate tough questions.
